CRITICAL HEALTH ALERT: NOROVIRUS CASES SURGE ACROSS THE UK

A Sharp Winter Spike Raises Serious Public Health Concerns (February 2026)

The United Kingdom is currently experiencing a significant and sustained rise in Norovirus infections, prompting urgent public health warnings from the National Health Service (NHS) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). As of early February 2026, surveillance data confirms that Norovirus activity is not only higher than seasonal averages but is also accelerating rapidly, particularly among older adults and young children.

✹. THE SCALE OF THE OUTBREAK: WHAT THE DATA SHOWS

Recent UKHSA surveillance paints a worrying picture:

• Norovirus laboratory reports are 73.8% higher than the 5-season average for the same period

• Cases have increased 18.3% within just two weeks

• Earlier January data already showed 60–61% increases, indicating a continuous upward trend

• Adults aged 65+ account for the majority of cases, with a notable rise now seen in children under 5 years

While the total number of hospital-reported outbreaks remains below historical averages, outbreaks within hospitals and care settings are rising, placing strain on healthcare services and increasing risks to vulnerable populations.

 VIROLOGICAL PROFILE: WHAT’S DRIVING THE SPIKE?

Laboratory characterisation during the 2025/26 season reveals:

• 84.6% of samples belong to Norovirus Genogroup II (GII)
• Dominant circulating strains:
• GII.4 – 32.9%
• GII.17 – 21.6%

The co-circulation of multiple genotypes, combined with seasonal factors, population mixing after the festive period, and testing dynamics, is believed to be contributing to the unusually high activity levels.

 KEY SYMPTOMS THE PUBLIC MUST NOT IGNORE

Norovirus is highly contagious and spreads easily through close contact and contaminated surfaces. Symptoms typically include:

• Sudden vomiting and diarrhoea
• Vomiting: usually 1–2 days
• Diarrhoea: can persist 5–7 days
• High temperature, chills, and extreme fatigue
• Abdominal pain, headaches, and aching limbs

The most serious complication is dehydration, especially among:

• Older adults
• Young children
• Immunocompromised individuals

✹. NHS & UKHSA URGENT GUIDELINES TO STOP THE SPREAD

 Stay Home – No Exceptions

• Anyone with vomiting or diarrhoea must not attend work, school, or nursery
• Remain at home until 48 hours after symptoms have fully resolved

✹. Protect the Vulnerable

• Avoid visiting hospitals and care homes if unwell
• This is critical to protect those aged 65+, young children, and those with chronic illnesses

 HYGIENE: THE MOST EFFECTIVE DEFENCE

Public health authorities strongly emphasise that Norovirus is resistant to alcohol-based hand gels.

Essential Hygiene Measures

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water

• Clean contaminated clothing and bedding at 60°C

• Disinfect high-touch surfaces (toilets, taps, door handles) using bleach-based products

• Do not prepare food for others while symptomatic or during the 48-hour recovery period

 HOME MANAGEMENT & RECOVERY ADVICE

There is no specific antiviral treatment for Norovirus. Management focuses on supportive care:

• Hydration is critical
• Water and other clear fluids should be taken frequently
• Paracetamol may be used for fever and body aches
• Rest completely until strength and energy return

Seek medical help urgently if signs of severe dehydration appear, particularly in children or elderly patients.

✹. OTHER WINTER VIRUSES: A CONTRASTING TREND

While Norovirus is rising sharply, surveillance data shows:

• Influenza: decreasing, circulating at low levels
• RSV: declining overall, though stable among older adults
• COVID-19: baseline activity with minor fluctuations

Vaccination uptake remains good among older adults, but continued vigilance is essential, as respiratory viruses remain unpredictable.

✹. PUBLIC HEALTH MESSAGE: SIMPLE ACTIONS SAVE LIVES

UKHSA epidemiologists consistently stress that basic preventive measures work:

• Proper handwashing
• Staying home when unwell
• Avoiding contact with vulnerable people
• Responsible hygiene in households and care settings

These actions not only protect individuals but also prevent healthcare systems from being overwhelmed during winter months.

 FINAL WORD: STAY INFORMED, STAY RESPONSIBLE

Norovirus is not just a “winter vomiting bug” — at its current levels, it represents a serious public health challenge. With cases rising far above expected seasonal norms, community cooperation is essential to curb further spread.

Early isolation, strict hygiene, and public awareness remain our strongest tools.